Vehicle exterior mirror system

ABSTRACT

A lighted exterior mirror system for a vehicle includes an exterior mirror assembly and a signal light disposed in the exterior mirror assembly. The signal light includes at least one light emitting diode. The signal light is configured to emit a light pattern and the light pattern is defined at least between a forward leading edge and a rearward leading edge. The forward leading edge of the light pattern forms a forward angle that is in the range of about zero degrees to about 45 degrees relative to the side of a vehicle equipped with the lighted exterior mirror system, and the rearward leading edge of the light pattern forms a rearward angle that is in the range of about zero degrees to about 15 degrees relative to the side of the equipped vehicle.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/250,099, filed Sep. 30, 2011, which is a continuation ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/836,757, filed Jul. 15, 2010, nowU.S. Pat. No. 8,033,699, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/122,005, filed May 16, 2008, which is a divisionof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/649,143, filed Jan. 3, 2007, nowU.S. Pat. No. 7,377,675, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 10/407,555, filed Apr. 4, 2003, now U.S. Pat. No.7,168,830, which is divisional application of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/690,048, filed Oct. 16, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,568,839,which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/102,414,filed on Jun. 22, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,176,602, all of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to security systems for vehicles and,more particularly, to remotely actuated, personal safety lightingsystems. The invention is particularly adapted to incorporation in theexterior mirrors of a vehicle.

Personal security in and around vehicles has become an importantconcern. In particular, an increasing number of assaults and robberiesare committed in parking lots while occupants are entering and exitingvehicles. While remote-operated, keyless entry systems have beenincorporated in vehicles in order to unlock the vehicle and illuminateinterior lights, such systems merely expedite entry to the vehicle anddo not, per se, enhance security around the vehicle. Accordingly, a needexists for a vehicle security system to increase the security forvehicle occupants while entering and exiting the vehicle. Any suchsystem would need to be aesthetically pleasing and not burdensome inuse.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is intended to provide a personal safety featurefor a vehicle in the form of a floodlight adapted to projecting lightgenerally downwardly on an area adjacent a portion of the vehicle inorder to create a lighted security zone in the area. Advantageously, thefloodlight is preferably positioned in the housing of an exterior mirrorhaving a reflective element also positioned in the housing. According toan aspect of the invention, an actuator is provided for the floodlightincluding a base unit in the vehicle and a remote transmitter. The baseunit is responsive to a signal from the remote transmitter in order toactuate the floodlight. This allows the vehicle operator to actuate thefloodlight from a distance in order to establish the security zone priorto approaching the vehicle.

According to another aspect of the invention, an actuator for thefloodlight includes a lockout device in order to prevent actuation ofthe floodlight during operation of the vehicle. According to yet afurther aspect of the invention, a signal light that is adapted toprojecting light generally rearwardly of the vehicle is included in theexterior mirror housing. An actuator for the warning light is connectedwith the stoplight circuit, turn signal circuit, or both the stoplightand turn signal circuit, of the vehicle in order to actuate the warninglight when either the stoplight or turn signal is being actuated.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, the floodlight isadapted to projecting a pattern of light from the housing on an areaadjacent a portion of the vehicle that extends laterally onto thevehicle and downwardly and rearwardly of the vehicle. In this manner, asecurity zone is established from the vehicle door to the rear of thevehicle. The signal light is adapted to projecting a pattern of lightextending laterally away from the vehicle and rearwardly of the vehicle.In this manner, the pattern generated by the signal light cannot besubstantially observed by a driver of the vehicle. However, the patterngenerated by the signal light may be observed by a driver of anothervehicle passing the vehicle equipped according to the invention.

The floodlight and signal lights may be generated by a light emittingdiode positioned in the housing, a vacuum fluorescent lamp positioned inthe housing, an incandescent lamp positioned in the housing or a lightsource in the vehicle and a light pipe between the light source and themirror housing.

By providing a lighted security zone adjacent the vehicle, users canobserve suspicious activity around the vehicle. The pattern of lightgenerated by a security light according to the invention establishes asecurity zone around, and even under, the vehicle in the important areawhere the users enter and exit the vehicle. The provision for remoteactuation of the security light provides a deterrent to ward off personslurking around the protected vehicle while the users are still at a safedistance from the vehicle. The provision for a lockout circuit ensuresthat the Security light will not inadvertently be actuated while thevehicle is in motion. The invention, further, conveniently combines asignal light that acts in unison with the vehicle's turn signal, brakelight, or both, with the security light in an exterior mirror assembly.The signal light may be designed to be observed by other vehiclespassing the equipped vehicle but not directly by the driver of theequipped vehicle.

The present invention further provides an exterior mirror system for avehicle, which incorporates a signal light into the exterior rearviewmirror assembly. The signal light provides a light pattern whichpreferably extends forwardly, rearwardly, and to the side of the vehiclein order to provide advance warning to approaching vehicles, or to avehicle that is in the vehicle's blind spot, that the driver of thevehicle intends to make a turn or lane change, with the light patternpreferably restricted from direct observation by a driver of thevehicle. Additionally, the present invention provides a “powerfold”exterior mirror system which includes a security light that projects apattern of light adjacent side of the vehicle and fans the lightoutwardly from the vehicle to provide a security zone, which isoptionally adapted to maintain the position of the pattern of light evenwhen the exterior rearview mirror assembly is moved between its normalextended operating position to a folded position. It is quite common invehicles in many European countries to have electrically retractable or“powerfold” mirrors.

According to one form of the invention, an exterior mirror system for avehicle includes an exterior mirror assembly, which includes areflective element, a housing for the reflective element, and apositioning device for adjusting the position of the reflective elementin the housing. The mirror assembly is adapted to mount to the vehicleand includes at least one signal light. The signal light includes alight source and a light conduiting member. The light conduiting memberis oriented for facing at least rearward of the vehicle and is adaptedto project a pattern of light from the housing which extends at leastrearwardly of and laterally from the vehicle and to restrict the lightfrom extending into the vehicles so that a driver seated in the vehicledoes not directly observe the pattern of light. Preferably, the patternof light comprises an amber colored light to provide a signal.

In one aspect, the light conduiting member includes a light inputsurface and a light emitting surface. In one form, at least a portion ofthe light emitting surface is generally orthogonal to the light inputsurface. In further aspects, the light conduiting member includes aplurality of light conduiting portions with each including a light inputsurface and a light emitting surface and first and second side walls.The side walls provide internal light reflecting surfaces and directlight from the light source through the light conduiting portions andthrough said light emitting surfaces. In preferred form, the signallight includes a plurality of light sources, with each being associatedwith the light conduiting portions.

In other aspects, the light conduiting member includes a first side, afirst end, and a second side. The first side defines the light emittingsurface and is positioned for facing outward from the housing. The firstend defines the light input surface. The second side defines a pluralityof internal reflecting surfaces which are arranged to reflect the lightfrom the light source through the first side of the light reflectingmember and in the light pattern. In further aspects, the light patternincludes a plurality of light regions, with each of the light regionshaving a first leading edge generally parallel with the vehicle and asecond leading edge generally angled away from the vehicle. For example,the internal reflecting surfaces may comprise generally angled planarsurfaces provided on the second side of the light conduiting member.

In another aspect, the exterior mirror system includes a second lightconduiting member which is positioned in a front facing portion of thehousing wall of the exterior mirror assembly and directs light at leastforwardly of the vehicle. Preferably, the second light reflecting memberwraps around an outer portion of the housing wall for directing lightlaterally with respect to the vehicle.

According to yet another form of the invention, an exterior mirrorassembly for vehicle includes a mirror housing having a reflectiveelement and a positioning device for adjusting the position of thereflective element, and a signal light mounted to a portion of theassembly. The signal light includes a light source and a reflector,which includes a plurality of faceted light reflecting surfaces fordirecting light from the light source forwardly, rearwardly, andlaterally of the vehicle. The faceted reflecting surfaces are adapted torestrict light from extending into the vehicle so that a driver seatedin the vehicle does not directly observe the pattern of light.

In one aspect, the faceted reflector surfaces may comprise either planarreflective surfaces, concave reflective surfaces, or convex reflectivesurface. Preferably, at least one of the faceted reflective surfacescomprises a concave reflective surface.

In other aspects, the signal light includes a housing, which includes arecessed portion defining a curvilinear wall. The light source ispositioned in the recessed portion, and the reflector is positionedalong the curvilinear wall. Light emitted from the light source isdirected outwardly from the light module and forwardly, rearwardly, andlaterally of the vehicle and is restricted from extending into thevehicle so that the driver seated in the vehicle does not directlyobserve the light pattern.

According to another form of the invention, the exterior mirror assemblyfor vehicle includes a powerfold exterior mirror system. The powerfoldexterior minor system includes a folding portion and a non-foldingportion, with the non-folding portion being adapted to mount to thevehicle, and the folding portion including a reflective element andbeing adapted to move between a normal viewing position and a foldedposition. At least one security light is substantially positioned ineither the folding portion or the non-folding portion, which is adaptedto project a pattern of light from the exterior mirror assembly tocreate a lighted security zone in an area adjacent the vehicle.

In one aspect, the security light is positioned in the folding portionof the exterior mirror assembly. In further aspects, the exterior mirrorassembly further includes an actuator, which adjusts the position of thesecurity light in the folding portion when the folding portion moves toits folded position whereby the orientation of the lighted security zoneremains substantially unaffected by the movement of the folding portion.

In another aspect, the security light is mounted to the non-foldingportion of the exterior minor assembly. In further aspects, the securitylight includes a housing, a light source positioned to the housing, alight reflecting member supported in the housing, and a cover. The lightreflecting member directs light from the light source through the cover.Preferably, the housing is substantially positioned in the non-foldingportion of the exterior mirror assembly. Furthermore, the cover ispreferably substantially flush with an outer surface of the non-foldingportion to reduce the aerodynamic drag of the security light.

It can be appreciated from the foregoing that the exterior mirror systemof the present invention permits an approaching vehicle to observe anactuated signal light without the interference from headlights or brakelights. The exterior minor system may include a unitary module, which iseasily installed or removed for repair, or a signal light assembly whichis incorporated into the housing of the mirror assembly.

These and other objects, advantages, purposes and features in theinvention, will become more apparent from the study of the followingdescription taken in conjunction with the drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view taken from the front of a mirror assembly(rear of the vehicle) incorporating the invention;

FIG. 2 is a rear view of the mirror assembly in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top view of the mirror assembly in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is the same view of FIG. 1 of an alternative embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a control system according to theinvention;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment of a controlsystem according to the invention;

FIG. 7 is a breakaway perspective view of the system in FIG. 1 revealinginternal components thereof;

FIG. 8 is a sectional view taken along the lines VIII-VIII in FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along the lines TX-TX in FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a side elevation of a vehicle illustrating the security zonelight pattern generated by a security light according to the invention;

FIG. 11 is a top plan view of the vehicle and light pattern in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a rear elevation of the vehicle and light pattern in FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a side elevation of a vehicle illustrating the light patterngenerated by a signal light useful with the invention;

FIG. 14 is atop plan view of the vehicle and light pattern in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a rear elevation of the vehicle and light pattern in FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 is the same view as FIG. 7 of a first alternative light sourceaccording to the invention;

FIG. 17 is the same view as FIG. 7 of a second alternative light source;

FIG. 18 is the same view as FIG. 7 of a third alternative light source;

FIG. 19 is the same view as FIG. 7 of a fourth alternative light source;and

FIG. 20 is the same view as FIG. 7 of the invention embodied in analternative mirror structure.

FIG. 21 is a plan view of a vehicle with an exterior rearview mirrorassembly of the present invention mounted to the vehicle illustratingthe light pattern from a signal light mounted in the exterior rearviewmirror assembly;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the driver's side exterior rearviewmirror assembly of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a top plan view of the exterior rearview mirror assembly ofFIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a cross-section view taken along line XXIV-XXIV of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a light reflecting member of theexterior rearview mirror assembly of FIGS. 22 and 23;

FIG. 26 is a top plan view of the light reflecting member of FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is an elevation view of a second embodiment of the exteriorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 28 is a bottom plan view of the exterior rearview mirror assemblyof FIG. 27;

FIG. 29 is a plan view of a light module of the exterior rearview mirrorassembly of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the exteriorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 31 is an exploded perspective view of a signal light of FIG. 30;

FIG. 31A is a front elevation of a light source of the signal light ofFIG. 31;

FIG. 31B is a side view of the light source of FIG. 31A;

FIG. 32A is a plan view of a second embodiment of the signal light ofFIG. 31;

FIG. 32B is a plan view of a third embodiment of the signal light ofFIG. 31;

FIG. 33 is a plan view of a fourth embodiment of the exterior rearviewmirror assembly of the present invention shown mounted to a vehicle;

FIG. 34 is an enlarged plan view of the exterior rearview mirrorassembly of FIG. 33 illustrated in a normal extended position;

FIG. 35 is an enlarged plan view of the exterior mirror assembly of FIG.33 in a folded position;

FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view taken along line XXXVI-XXXVI of FIG.34 illustrating a light module of the exterior rearview mirror assemblyof FIG. 33 and a positioning mechanism for the light module;

FIG. 37 is an elevation view of one the exterior rearview mirrorassemblies of FIG. 33; and

FIG. 38 is an elevation view of a fifth embodiment of the exteriorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now specifically to the drawings, and the illustrativeembodiments depicted therein, a vehicle personal security lightingsystem 25 includes an exterior mirror assembly 26 having a conventionalreflectance element 28, a security light 30, preferably white, or clear,and a signal light 32, preferably red, incorporated in a housing, orcasing, 34. Casing 34 is connected by a neck 36 to a stationary panel orsail 38 adapted for incorporation with the forward portion of thevehicle side window assembly, and which mounts mirror assembly 26 to thedoor of a vehicle 40 (see FIG. 10). Reflectance element 28 may be any ofseveral reflectors, such as glass coated on its first or second surfacewith a′ suitable reflective layer or layers, such as those disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 5,179,471, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporatedby reference herein, or an electro-optic cell including a liquidcrystal, electrochromic, or electrochemichromic fluid, gel orsolid-state compound for varying the reflectivity of the mirror inresponse to electrical voltage applied there across as disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,151,824, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein.

With reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, as is conventional, reflectance element28 is mounted to a bracket 43 by an actuator 42. Casing 34 is mounted tobracket 43. Actuator 42 provides remote positioning of reflectanceelement 28 on two orthogonal axes. Such actuators are well known in theart and may include a jackscrew-type actuator 42 such as Model No.1116-49-8001 (right-hand mirror) and Model No. 1116-49-8051 (left-handmirror) by Matsuyama of Kawagoe City, Japan, as illustrated in FIG. 7,or a planetary-gear actuator 42′ such as Model No. 540 (U.S. Pat. No.4,281,899) sold by Industrie Koot BV (IKU) of Montfoort, Netherlands, asillustrated in FIG. 20. As is also conventional, the entire casing 34including actuator 42, 42′ is mounted via bracket 43 for breakawaymotion with respect to stationary panel 38 by a breakaway joint assembly44. Breakaway joint assembly 44 (FIG. 9) includes a stationary member 46attached to vehicle 40, a pivoting member 48 to which bracket 43 andcasing 34 are attached, and a wire-way 50 through which a wire cable 52passes. Wire cable 52 includes individual wires to supply controlsignals to actuator 42, 42′, as well as signals to control the level ofreflectivity, if reflective element 28 is of the variable reflectivitytype noted above, such as an electrochromic mirror. Power may also besupplied through cable 52 for a heater (not shown) as disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,151,824 in order to evaporate ice and dew from reflectiveelement 28.

With reference to FIG. 5, actuator 42, 42′ receives a first set ofreversible voltage signals from a switch 54, in order to bidirectionallypivot in one axis, and a second set of reversible signals from a switch56, in order to bidirectionally pivot in the opposite axis, as isconventional. Switches 54 and 56 are actuated by a common actuator (notshown) that is linked so that only one of the switches 54 and 56 may beactuated at a time. In this manner, actuator 42, 42′ may utilize onecommon conductor for both switches 54, 56.

Each of the security light 30 and signal light 32 includes a lightsource 60 and reflector 62 behind a lens 64 (FIG. 8). Light source 60,reflector 62 and lens 64 are designed for security light 30 to project apattern 66 of light, such as white light, through a clear, non-filteringlens, in order to establish a security zone around the vehicle (FIGS.10-12). Pattern 66 extends rearward from mirror assembly 26. Vertically,pattern 66 contacts the ground at 68 in the vicinity of entry and exitby the vehicle occupants (FIGS. 10 and 12). Laterally, pattern 66 fansout into contact with the side 70 a, 70 b of the vehicle. This contactwashes the sides of the vehicle to reflect the light in order to furtherilluminate the area in order to establish the security lighting zone(FIGS. 11 and 12). In a preferred embodiment, pattern 66 extendsrearwardly from mirror assembly 26 without projecting any portion of thepattern forwardly of the mirror assembly.

Signal light 32 generates a light pattern 72, which is directedgenerally horizontally rearwardly of vehicle 40 (FIGS. 13-15). Pattern72 is laterally directed substantially away from side 70 a, 70 b ofvehicle 40 so that the driver of vehicle 40 does not directly interceptpattern 72, although a minor intensity (such as 10%) of the pattern isintercepted by the driver in order to provide awareness of the actuatingof the signal light. Pattern 72 fans laterally away from side 70 a, 70 bto an extent that is parallel the face of reflectance element 28, whichis substantially perpendicular to side 70 a, 70 b (FIG. 14). Thus, thedriver of another vehicle (not shown) passing vehicle 40 on the left orright side of vehicle 40 will intercept pattern 72 while the vehicle isbehind and beside vehicle 40. Although, in an illustrated embodiment,lens 64 of signal light 32 is substantially planar, lens 64 of signallight 32 could be made to wrap around the outward side of casing 34 inorder to function as a side marker for the vehicle as is required insome European countries.

Vehicle mirror assembly security system 25 is actuated by a controlsystem 74 (FIG. 5). Control system 74 includes means for actuatingsecurity light 30 including a remote transmitting device 76 and astationary receiving device 78. Transmitting device 76 may be remotelycarried by the vehicle operator and includes switches 80 and 81 in orderto actuate the transmitting circuitry to transmit a signal form antenna82, which is received by antenna 84 of receiving device 78. Receivingdevice 78 is mounted in the vehicle, such as in the vehicle trunkcompartment, and includes an output 86 in order to operate remote doorlock circuit 88, as is conventional. Output 86 is, additionally,provided as an input 90 of a lockout circuit 92, whose output 94 issupplied to security lamp 30. Input 90 may additionally be actuated by atimeout circuit 96, which is conventionally supplied in a vehicle inorder to dim the interior lights, following a slight delay, after theoccurrence of an event, such as the opening and closing of the doors ofthe vehicle. Signal light 32 is actuated on line 98 from either a′ turnindicator circuit 100 or a stop lamp indicator circuit 102, both ofwhich are conventionally supplied with vehicle 40.

In operation, when the operator actuates switch 80 of transmittingdevice 76, receiving device 78 produces a signal on output 86 in orderto cause remote door lock circuit 88 to unlock the doors. Alternatively,actuation of switch 81 on remote transmitting device 76 causes receivingdevice 78 to produce a signal on output 86 to cause remote door lockcircuit 88 to lock the vehicle doors. The signal on output 86 actuatessecurity lamp 30 provided that lockout circuit 92 does not inhibit thesignal. Lockout circuit 92 responds to operation of the vehicle in orderto avoid actuation of security lamp 30 when the vehicle is in motion.Such lockout circuits are conventional and may be responsive to placingof the vehicle transmission in gear of sensing of the speed of thevehicle, or the like. Security lamp 30 is also actuated, in response tointerior lighting device timeout circuit 96, whenever the interiorlights of the vehicle are being actuated by timeout circuit 96, providedthat lookout circuit 92 does not inhibit the signal from security lamp30. This is provided in order to allow security lamp 30 to be actuatedin response to the entry to, or exit from, vehicle 40 without theoperator utilizing transmitting device 76 to lock or unlock the doors.Signal lamp 32 is actuated in response to turn indicator circuit 100whenever the operator moves the indicator stick in the direction of thatparticular signal lamp 32. Signal lamp 32 may additionally be actuatedfrom stop lamp circuit 102 in response to the driver actuating thevehicle's brakes.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 5, lens 64 of signal lamp32 is adapted to filter the light provided from lamp 32 so as to be redand is provided for vehicles 40 in which the stop lamps and rear turnindicator lamps are, likewise, red. Because signal lamp 32 shines red,pattern 72 is restricted from extending forward of the vehicle. This isin order to comply with regulations prohibiting red lights from causingconfusion with emergency vehicles by shining forward of the vehicle.

For vehicles having red stoplights and amber turn indicators in therear, a vehicle mirror security assembly 25′ includes an exterior mirrorassembly 26′ and a control system 74′ (FIGS. 4 and 6). Exterior mirrorassembly 26′ includes a security light 30′, preferably white or clear,and a pair of signal lights 32 a′ and 32 b′. Signal light 32 a′ is amberand is actuated directly from turn indicator circuit 100′, This ambercolor can be provided either by an amber light bulb or source, or afiltering lens providing an amber color. Signal light 32 b′ is red andis actuated directly from stop lamp circuit 102′. Each of the lightpatterns generated by signal lights 32 a′ and 32 b′ substantiallycorrespond with light pattern 72. The light pattern generated bysecurity light 30′ is substantially equivalent to pattern 66. With theexception that turn signal indicator circuit 100′ actuates signal light32 a′ and stop lamp circuit 102′ actuates signal light 32 b′, controlsystem 74′ operates substantially identically with control circuit 74.

In the illustrated embodiment, light source 60, for both security light30 and signal light 32, may be supplied as a conventional incandescentor halogen lamp 60 a (FIG. 7). Alternatively, a conventionalincandescent fuse lamp 60 b may be used (FIG. 16). Alternatively, avacuum fluorescent lamp 60 c, which is available in various colors, maybe used (FIG. 17). Alternatively, a light emitting diode 60 d may beused (FIG. 18). As yet a further alternative, a fiber optic bundle 104forming a light pipe may be positioned to discharge light behind lens64. Fiber optic bundle 104 passes through breakaway joint 44 in wire-way50 in order to transmit light from a source (not shown) within vehicle40. By way of example, lens 64 may be supplied as a segmented lens, aprismatic lens, or a Fresnel lens in order to generate light patterns 66and 72. Bracket 43 and breakaway joint 44 are marketed by DonnellyCorporation, the present assignee, of Holland, Mich. The remote actuatorcomposed of remote transmitting device 76 and stationary receivingdevice 78 may be radio frequency coupled, as is conventional.Alternatively, they may be infrared coupled as illustrated in U.S. Pat.No. 4,258,352.

Although the invention is illustrated in a mirror assembly utilizing anautomatic remote actuator, it may also be applied to manual remoteactuators and handset actuators. As previously set forth, reflectanceelement 28 may be conventional or may be supplied as an electrochromicself-dimming mirror. Although the invention is illustrated withbreakaway joint 44, the invention may also be applied to mirrors thatare rigidly mounted to the vehicle.

Referring to FIGS. 21-23, the numeral 210 generally designates adriver's side exterior mirror assembly of the present invention, withthe numeral 210′ generally designating a passenger's side exteriormirror assembly of the present invention which is preferably a mirrorimage of driver's side exterior mirror assembly 210. Exterior rearviewmirror assembly 210 includes a mirror casing or housing 212, whichincludes a sail 213 that is adapted to mount on a vehicle, a reflectiveelement 214, which is supported in casing 212, and a signal light 216which is also supported in casing 212. Signal light 216 is adapted todirect light into the blind spot of the driver and, preferably, providesa light forwardly and rearwardly of the vehicle so that vehiclesapproaching the vehicle may observe the signal light. Additionally,signal light 216 is adapted to project light laterally with respect tothe vehicle to provide a side light and so function as a side marker.Furthermore, it should be understood that light pattern 217 is generallycone shaped and may project above and below the horizontal planeextending through mirror assembly 210 similar to the illustration inFIG. 15 and preferably projects light above and below the horizontalplane by in a range of about 5° to about 25° and, more preferably, about15°. As will be more fully described, signal light 216 is preferablyadapted to direct the light in a light pattern 217 (with passenger sideexterior rearview mirror assembly 210′ having a mirror image lightpattern 217′), such that the light does not extend into the cabin of thevehicle to distract the driver of the vehicle. Furthermore, byprojecting light rearwardly, forwardly, and to the side of the vehicle,approaching vehicles, whether from the forward direction of the vehicleor from the rearward direction of the vehicle or vehicles that areentering the blind spot of the vehicle, can observe the signal light andhave advanced notice that the driver of the vehicle intends to make alane change or turn.

Rearview mirror assembly 210 may comprise a fixed position exteriorrearview mirror assembly or may comprise a break-away rearview mirrorassembly, which moves between a normal operating position, in which therearview mirror assembly is extended from the vehicle, to a foldedposition against the body of the vehicle when the exterior rearviewmirror assembly 210 is impacted with sufficient force. Reference is madeto the previous embodiment, exterior mirror assembly 26, for one exampleof a break-away rearview mirror assembly.

Casing 212 is cup shaped and includes a rearwardly facing opening 212 ain which reflective element 214 is supported. Casing 212 is preferablyinjection molded from a suitable plastic, such as nylon, acrylonitrilebutadiene styrene (ABS) or suitable resinous plastic, or the like, whichis commercially available under the trademark TERLURAN KR2889®, by BASFCompany of Wyandotte, Mich. Alternately, other resinous, meltprocessible plastics or moldable materials such as mineral-filled orglass filled nylon or polyester and polypropylene could be used to formcase 212. A suitable nylon is 13% glass modified nylon 6:6 sold as ZYTEL71G13L® by I.E. DuPont de Nemours & Company of Wilmington, Del., orPA123G13BK-47 by Bay Resins Inc. of Millington, Md. A suitablepolypropylene is TENITE P6M4Z-007® by Eastman Chemical Products, Inc.,Kingsport, Tenn. Alternately, casing 212 may comprise a fiber reinforcednylon plastic, thermoplastic, or polypropylene or other similarthermoplastic or thermoset materials.

As described above, reflective element 214 is supported in casing 212.As best seen in FIG. 24, reflective element 214 is mounted to a backingplate 214 a which is supported by a positioning device, such as anactuator 218, which provides adjustment for reflective element 214.Actuator 218 is supported on a mounting bracket 220, which in turn issecured to casing 212 on mounting bosses 222 provided on casing wall224. In the illustrated embodiment, actuator 218 comprises an electricalactuator, which pivots reflective element 214 in casing 212. Preferably,actuator 218 comprises dual axis positioning device that permitsadjustment of the position of the reflective element 214 and backingplate 214 a about both vertical and horizontal axes as is known in theart. It should be understood, however, other positioning devices may beused including manually operated actuators, a remote manually operatedactuators, such as a BODEN cable actuator, or the like.

Reflective mirror element 214 may comprise a conventional non-electrooptic planar or convex mirror element including a metallic reflectorcoated glass substrate, such as with a thin chromium or chromium alloyreflector coating, or a non-metallic reflector layer, such as a dichroiclayer as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,207,492 to Roberts et al. or areflector comprising a silicon reflective layer such as described inU.S. Pat. No. 5,535,056 to Caskey et al., which are herein incorporatedby reference in their entireties. Alternatively, reflective element 214may comprise a variable reflective electro optic element, such aselectrochromic mirror element comprising one of several types ofelectrochromic elements, for example an element of theelectrochemichromic type, which is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,140,455issued to Varaprasad et al., or may be of the solid state type such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,712,879 issued to Niall R. Lynam et al.,U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/023,675, filed Feb. 22, 1993, byVaraprasad et al., U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/913,557, filedFeb. 8, 1994, by Varaprasad et al., and U.S. patent application Ser. No.08/238,521, filed Mar. 5, 1994, by Varaprasad et al., now U.S. Pat. No.5,668,663, all commonly assigned with the present application toDonnelly Corporation of Holland, Mich., the disclosures of which areherein incorporated by reference in their entireties. Suchelectrochromic elements comprise an electrically responsiveelectrochromic medium that modulates reflectivity from a reflectiveelement. Such electrochromic mirror elements are continuously variableand exhibit multiple reflectant states as the voltage applied thereto isvaried. Alternately, reflective element 214 may comprise other electrooptic mirror elements such as a liquid crystal mirror and the like.Where reflective element 214 comprises an electrochromic mirror element,the electrochromic mirror element is preferably driven by signalsproduced by a variable reflectant system of the type disclosed in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 08/316,047 for a “Modular VariableReflectant Mirror Assembly”, filed Sep. 30, 1994, by Kenneth L.Schierbeek et al., now U.S. Pat. No. 5,659,423 which is hereinincorporated by reference in its entirety.

It should be understood, although not described herein, that one or moreelectrical or electronic components may be mounted in casing 212, suchas the interface transaction system described in U.S. patent applicationentitled A VEHICLE MOUNTED REMOTE TRANSACTION INTERFACE SYSTEM filed byMartin DeVries and Niall R. Lynam on Apr. 8, 1998, Ser. No. 09/057,428,now U.S. Pat. No. 6,158,655, and/or an electronic module, which mayinclude one or more electrical or electronic devices, such as antennasand circuitry for rain sensors, heating elements, and the like, asdescribed in pending U.S. patent application entitled MODULAR REARVIEWMIRROR ASSEMBLY INCLUDING ELECTRONIC MODULE, Ser. No. 08/702,228 whichwas filed Aug. 23, 1996, by Niall Lynam et al., now U.S. Pat. No.6,019,475, and which are commonly assigned to Donnelly Corporation ofHolland, Mich., the disclosures of which are incorporated by referenceherein in their entireties.

As best seen in FIGS. 22 and 26, signal light 216 is positioned in alower portion or bottom rim of casing 212 and includes a lightconduiting member or light pipe 230 and a light source 232. The color ofthe light emitted from signal light 216 is preferably amber,yellow-amber, or amber-red, depending on its application and may begenerated by a boot or cover, a filter, a reflector which surrounds thelight source, the light source or the light pipe or a combination of oneor more of the aforementioned devices. For example, light source 232 mayproduce, for example an amber light from a coating on the light sourcebulb or from a gas enclosed in the bulb or from the light producingelement of the light source. In addition, signal light 216 preferablyproduces a light intensity of at least about 0.3 and in the range ofabout 0.3 to about 200 candela, more preferably, in a range of about 0.6to about 150 candela, and most preferably, in a range of about 1.0candela to about 25 candela, such that signal light 216 preferably meetsthe specification for the applicable automobile industry standards suchas Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) 5500; ECE Reg. 48; EEC No. 76/759;and/or E/ECE/324 Reg. No. 6. Moreover, signal light 216 may produce avariable light pattern intensity. For example, referring to FIG. 21, inthe region 217 c of light pattern 217 which is forward of transverseaxis 211 b, the light intensity may have one intensity value, while theregion 217 d rearward of transverse axis 211 b may include another lightintensity value. Furthermore, each region 217 c or 217 d may have avariable intensity pattern. For example, the portion of the region 217 cor 217 d nearest to axis 211 b may have a higher light intensity thanportions of the region 217 c or 217 d angled further away from axis 211b. In this manner, signal light 216 is visible to persons on the roadwho are approaching the vehicle from the forward or rearward directionor persons located adjacent the vehicle.

Light pipe 230 is preferably formed, such as by molding, from a plastic,such as polycarbonate, acrylic or the like, and is, therefore,substantially rigid. Alternately, light pipe 230 may comprise a flexiblebundle of individual fibers or an individual flexible fiber.Furthermore, light pipe 230 is adapted to transmit or direct light fromlight source 232 along a longitudinal axis 230 a of light pipe 230 andreflect the light from light source 232 as it extends through the lightpipe in directions generally lateral to the longitudinal axis 230 a oflight pipe 230, as will be more fully described below.

Referring to FIG. 26, light pipe 230 includes a first side 234, whichprovides a light emitting surface and is substantially planar, and anopposed side 236 which includes a plurality of faceted surfaces 238.Faceted surfaces 238 provide internal light reflecting surfaces and havea stepped configuration, with the cross-section of light pipe 230 beingincrementally reduced from a first end or approximate end 240 to asecond end or distal end 242. Light pipe 230 is preferably positioned incasing 212 such that first end 240 is positioned closer to the vehiclethan second end 242 and such that first side 234 is oriented facingoutwardly from casing 212. Moreover, light pipe 230 is preferablypositioned in casing 212 with minimal protrusion into the slipstream ofthe mirror assembly so as to reduce the aerodynamic drag and, mostpreferably, with first side 234 substantially flush with the outersurface of the lower portion or bottom rim of casing 212. First end 240is substantially planar and generally orthogonal to first side 234 anddefines a light input surface 244. Light source 232 is positionedadjacent light input surface 244 and preferably in substantially closeproximity to light input surface 244 so that a high percentage, if notall, light emitted from light source 232 is directed into light pipe230. Optionally, light source 232 may be optically coupled to lightinput surface 244 by, for example, an optical adhesive.

As described above, first side 234 of light pipe 230 provides lightemitting surface 245, through which light from light source 232 isemitted. Again referring to FIG. 26, when light enters light pipe 230through light input surface 244, the light rays are internally reflectedoff faceted surfaces 238 and, some of which, are internally reflectedoff planar surface 234 a of first side 234 so that the light from lightsource 232 is directed laterally through first side 234 and throughlight emitting surface 245 in directions which are angled with respectto first side 234. In preferred form, the light pattern emitted lightpipe 230 includes a plurality of light regions which are angled awayfrom the side of the vehicle to restrict the light from entering intothe vehicle. In this manner, light pipe 230 transmits or conduits thelight from light source 232. It should be understood that the geometryof light pipe 230 permits light pipe 230 to direct light in a mannerthat relies on internal reflections within light pipe 230; therefore, noreflective coatings are necessary. Consequently, light pipe 230 iseasier and less costly to manufacture. However, it can be appreciatedthat faceted surfaces 238 may include reflective coatings, such asformed by vacuum metalizing.

As best seen in FIG. 24, light pipe 230 is mounted between a lower orbottom wall portion 224 a of casing wall 224 and a flange 246 whichextends from a back wall portion 224 b of casing wall 224. Similarly,light source 232 is supported between flange 246 and lower portion 224 aof casing wall 224 and is positioned adjacent first end 240 of lightpipe 230, as described above. It should be understood from theforegoing, that reflective element 214 is independently mounted fromlight pipe 230 and, therefore, can move independently from light pipe230, which is preferably mounted in a fixed position in casing 212.

Optionally, signal light 216 includes a second light pipe 250. Lightpipe 250 is a similar construction to light pipe 230, except that lightpipe 250 includes a curved outer surface 252 which follows the curvatureof casing 212 as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24 and which defines a lightemitting surface. Light pipe 250 includes a first or approximate end254, which provides a light input surface, and a second or distal end256. As best seen in FIG. 23, light pipe 250 wraps around casing 212 topermit light to be reflected generally laterally from exterior rearviewassembly 210 to provide a side signal or side marker to cars which arepositioned in the blind spot of the vehicle. A second light source 258is positioned adjacent first end 254 so that light which is emitted fromlight source 258 is directed along the longitudinal axis 250 a of lightpipe 250 and laterally with respect to longitudinal axis 250 a in asimilar manner to light pipe 230.

Preferably, light pipes 230 and 250 direct light in light pattern 217,shown in FIG. 21. Light pattern 217 is defined between leading edges 217a and 217 b, wherein leading edge 217 a forms an angle α with respect tothe vehicle axis 211 a of vehicle 211, as measured in a counterclock-wise direction, and leading edge 217 b forms an angle β withrespect to vehicle axis 211 a as measured in a clock-wise direction.These angles vary depending upon the applicable guidelines orspecifications of the country in which the vehicle is sold. For example,α may be in a range of about 0° to about 45°. β may be in a range ofabout 0° to about 15°. In some countries, a may be in a range of about0° to about 40°, and β may be in a range of about 0° to about 5°.

Light sources 232 and 258 are preferably energized by power lines 260which extend through flange 246 so that they can be bundled along withother power or communication lines which extend from exterior mirrorcasing 212 to the interior of the vehicle to couple light sources 232and 258 to the electrical system of the vehicle. Light sources 232 and258 may comprise a laser diode, a solid state emitter such as a lightemitting diode, an incandescent light source, a fluorescent lightsource, such as a cold cathode fluorescent light, a phosphorous lamp, aneon light, a discharge lamp, an arc lamp, and an electro-luminescentlight, including inorganic or organic electro-luminescent sources.

Optionally, two or more of such light sources may be incorporated intoexterior mirror assembly 210 for directing light into the respectivelight input surfaces 244 and 256 of light pipes 230 and 250,respectively. Furthermore, a plurality of light emitting sources may begrouped to provide a more intense illumination. As described above, avariety of emitting sources may be used as light emitting sources 232and 258, including but not limited to a very high intensity amber andreddish-orange light emitting diode (LED) sources, such as solid statelight emitting diode sources utilizing double hetero junctionAlGaAs/GaAs Material Technology, such as very high intensity LED lampT-1% (5 mm) HLMT-4100/4101, available from Hewlett Packard Corporation,Palo Alto, Calif., for which used transparent substrate aluminum indiumgallium phosphide (AlInGaB) Material Technology, commercially availablefrom Hewlett Packard Corporation under the designation T-1¾ (5 mm)HLMT-DL00, HLMT-CH00, HLMT-CL00, HLMT-CH15, HLMT-DH00 or which useInGaAlB Material Technology available from Toshiba Corporation ofLaythem, N.Y. such as under the designation TLRH180D. Light emittancecolors provided by such solid state sources include orange, yellow,amber, and reddish-orange, preferably without the need for ancillaryfilters. The preferred solid state light emitting diodes operate at 25°C., or thereabouts, and operate with a forward voltage of about 2 voltsto about 5 volts; have a luminance intensity (measured at peak of thespacial radiation pattern which may not be aligned with a mechanicalaccess of the source package) of a minimum at 20 mA current of about 500to about 5,000 lcd (typically about 700 to about 7,000 mcd); operated ata forward current of about 20 mA to about 50 mA; emit with a dominantwave length (CIE Chromaticity diagram) of about 530 inn to about 60 nm;and have a viewing angle to θ½, where θ½ is the off axis angle where theluminance intensity is ½ the peak intensity of about 5° to about 25°.

Alternately, vacuum fluorescent sources such as 12-volt battery drivenhigh luminescent vacuum fluorescent sources may be used. It may also beadvantageous to use sources which operate efficiently at about 12 voltsor lower since these voltages are particularly suited to conventionalmotor vehicle electrical systems. Also, ultra high luminescent vacuumfluorescent sources such as those suitable for head set displayapplications in motor vehicles may be used with appropriate circuitry.

Alternately, non-LED non-incandescent light emitting sources can be usedsuch as electro-luminescent sources or semiconductor laser sources.Electro-luminescent sources may be either inorganic or organicelectro-luminescent sources. Light emitting sources 232 and 258,preferably have well defined light patterns, such as a cone of directedlight which eliminates the need for reflectors or other separate opticalcomponents that direct the light where desired. In addition, lightemitting sources 232 and 258 are preferably mounted on or within mirrorcasing 212 as described previously. Alternately, light sources 232 and258 may be in the form of a light pipe which directs light from a remotelight source located in the vehicle. Such a light pipe may comprise, forexample a flexible light pipe such as a fiber optic cable. In whichcase, the distal end of the fiber optic cable is positioned adjacent therespective light input surfaces 244 and 256 of light pipes 230 and 250.

In the event that the light emitting source comprises a light emittingdiode, a resistor is preferably connected in series with a respectivelight emitting diode to act as a voltage divider so as to reduce theignition voltage of the vehicle, which is in the range of 9-16 volts(normally 12 volts), for the desired operating voltage of the lightemitting diode, which is typically on the order of about one volt toabout five volts. Each resistor preferably has a resistance of less thanabout 1,500 ohms and greater than about 100 ohms, more preferably, lessthan about 1,000 ohms and greater than about 200 ohms.

Although illustrated herein as being located along the bottom rim of theexterior trim housing, other locations are possible for the signal lightof the invention, including the top and outboard rim of the exteriorhousing, and even elsewhere on the exterior vehicle body as appropriate.

Referring to FIGS. 27-29, a second embodiment 310 of the exteriorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention is illustrated.Exterior rearview mirror assembly 310 includes a housing or casing 312in which a reflective element 314 is supported. In addition, exteriorrearview mirror assembly 310 includes a signal light and, preferably, asignal light 316 which provides a light pattern similar to light pattern217 described in reference to the first embodiment and is supported bycasing 312 which will be further described below.

Reflective element 314 is mounted to a backing plate 314 a, which issupported on a positioning device or actuator 318, which in turn ismounted to a mounting bracket 320. In the illustrated embodiment,mounting bracket 320 is supported by mounting bosses 322 provided oncasing wall 324 of casing 312. It should be understood, that reflectiveelement 314, therefore, can move independently of the signal light 316,which is preferably mounted in a fixed position relative to casing 312.However, other mounting arrangement may be used for reflective element314 and for the exterior rearview assembly, including a fixed positionexterior rearview mirror assembly or a mounting arrangement in whichmounting bracket is rotatably coupled to a vehicle mounting bracket toprovide a break-away function of the exterior rearview mirror assembly.In a break-away exterior mirror assembly, signal light 316 is preferablymounted to move with the casing and, therefore, remains fixed relativeto the casing.

As best seen in FIG. 27, signal light 316 is mounted to a bottom wallportion 326 of casing wall 324. Bottom wall portion 326 of casing wall324 includes a stop or an abutment 328 against which signal light 316abuts when mounted to casing 312. Signal light 316 is preferably mountedto casing 312 by for example fasteners, such as threaded fasteners,keys, or projecting pins with enlarged heads which provide a snap-fitcoupling between signal light 316 and bottom wall 326. Alternately,signal light 316 may include tracks or guides and with casing 312including a corresponding guide or track so that signal light 316 can beinserted between the respective guides, or tracks. Furthermore, signallight 316 includes a lower most surface 316 a which preferably alignsand, more preferably, is flush with the lower most surface 328 a of stop328 so that when installed, signal light 316 follows the aerodynamiccontours of casing 312 to provide an aerodynamically contoured exteriorrearview mirror assembly 310.

Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, signal light 316 includes a housing 330which includes a cover 331 and a base 332. Base 332 includes a mountingportion and a raised or projecting portion 333 which defines a mountingsurface 334. Housing 330 is preferably plastic, such as nylon, a meltprocessible plastic, including for example polycarbonate, acrylic, orthe like and, additionally, matches the color of casing 312. Cover 331,which is preferably a clear plastic cover, extends over base 332 and issecured thereto using conventional means, including for examplereleasable couplers, including threaded fasteners, snap-fit couplers orthe like, or by welding, such as sonic welding, heat staking or thelike, or by an adhesive. Cover 331 defines a cavity or space 332 abetween base 332 and cover 331. Base 332 supports a light source 342,which is housed in cavity 332 a, and a light reflecting member 335 whichis preferably mounted to mounting surface 334 for reflecting light fromlight source 342 outwardly from signal light 316. Light reflectingmember 335 preferably comprises a multi-faceted reflector having acompound shape and includes a plurality of reflector elements 336, 338,and 340. Each reflector elements 336, 338, and 340 may comprise a metalreflector, such as a stamped aluminum reflector, a polished metalreflector, a painted/coated printed surface with a high specular and/ordiffused paint, film, tape, coating, or the like, a vacuum metalizedsubstrate, such as vacuum metalized glass or plastic, a metalized orreflective mineral filled substrate, such as a mineral filled plasticsubstrate, a reflective metal filled substrate, such as a metal filledplastic, or the like. Each of the respective reflective elements 336,338, and 340 may have a concave, a convex, or planar surface, or amultiradius surface such as an anamorphic asphere shape.

Preferably light source 342 is positioned adjacent reflector element 336and sufficiently spaced from reflector element 336 such that the lightemitted from light source 342 reflects off reflector elements 336, 338,and 440 to provide a pattern as shown in FIG. 28. Light source 342 maycomprise a bulb, a diode, or the like, and is powered through wiring 343which extends from signal light 316 to casing 312, for example by way ofan opening 330 a provided in base portion 332 of housing 330.Optionally, light source 342 may comprise a light pipe (not shown) whichdelivers or directs light from a remote light source in the vehicle in asimilar manner as described in reference to the previous embodiment.

As described above, cover 331 may be integrally molded with base portion332. In this manner, light source 342 may be inserted into cavity 332 athrough opening 330 a of base 332. Furthermore, cavity 332 a may bereduced such that cavity 332 a comprises a light source receivingsocket. In addition, signal light 316 may include a light conduitingmember, such as described in reference to signal light 216 or signallight 416, positioned in cavity or space 332 a to further enhance thedirection of light emitted from light source 342.

Referring to FIG. 28, signal light 316 emits light in a light pattern344, which is defined between leading edges 346 and 348. When mounted tocasing 312, light pattern 344 directs light forwardly and rearwardly ofthe vehicle and to the side of the vehicle but away from the cabin ofthe vehicle so as to avoid contact with the driver's eyes similar tolight pattern 217 in FIG. 21.

As best seen in FIG. 27, cover or lens 331 extends over housing 330 froma first end or approximate end 352 to a second or distal end 354. Forfurther details of light source 342, reference is made to thedescription of light sources 232 and 258 as described in reference tothe first embodiment. Preferably, cover 331 includes a neutral spectracontent and comprises a plastic lens, such as a polycarbonate lens.Furthermore, cover 331 may be a prescription lens such as, a fresnellens, including a micro fresnel lens, a diffusive optic lens, adiffractive optic lens, a refractive optic lens, a reflective opticlens, a holographic optic lens, a binary optic lens, a clear optic lens,a prismatic lens, a pillow lens, and a sinusoidal optic lens, or thelike. In which case, the color of the light from signal light 316 may beintroduced by light source 342, a boot or cover over light source 342, afilter, or reflector 335. Similar to as described in reference to lightsources 232 and 258, signal light 316 may emit an amber, yellow-amber,or red-amber light. Furthermore, cover 331 may optionally blend with thecolor of casing 312, with signal light 316 still emitting an amber,amber-yellow or red-amber light. Alternately, the color of the light maybe generated by cover 331 or a combination of any one or more of theaforementioned devices.

Preferably, signal light 316 produces a light intensity in the range ofabout 0.3 to about 200 candela, more preferably, in a range of about 0.6to about 150 candela, and most preferably, in a range of about 1.0 toabout 100 candela, such that signal light 316 preferably meets theapplicable specifications for the automobile industry, as described inthe previous embodiment. In this manner, signal light 316 is visible topersons on the road who are oncoming or approaching the vehicle from therearward direction. Furthermore, signal light 316 preferably extends tothe outer most portion and wraps around the bottom wall 326 of casing312 so that light emitted from signal light 316 is visible from the sideof the vehicle, and vehicles which are in the vehicle's blind spot canclearly see the signal light when actuated.

Preferably, signal light 316 is a unitary module or modular turn signalwhich can be easily serviced and/or replaced in its entirety.Furthermore, signal light 316 is preferably at least substantially waterimpervious and optionally may include a socket or electrical connectionto the vehicle electrical wiring system. In addition, as described inreference to the previous embodiment, signal light 316 may incorporate acircuit board for flexible circuitry, which couples to the electricalsystem of the vehicle for powering light source 342.

Referring to FIGS. 30-31, the numeral 410 designates a third embodimentof the exterior rearview assembly of the present invention. Exteriorrearview assembly 410 includes a mirror casing or housing 412, whichincludes a sail 413 which is adapted to mount on a vehicle, a reflectiveelement 414 which is supported in housing 412, and a signal light 416which is also supported in housing 412. Signal light 416 is adapted todirect light forwardly and rearwardly of the vehicle so that vehiclesapproaching from the opposite direction of the vehicle and rearwardly ofthe vehicle may observe signal light 416. Additionally, signal light 416is adapted to project light laterally with respect to the vehicle toprovide a side light and so function as a side marker. Similar toexterior mirror assembly 210, signal light 416 is preferably adapted todirect the signal light in a light pattern 417 such that the light doesnot extend into the cabin of the vehicle to distract the driver of thevehicle. Furthermore, by projecting light rearwardly, forwardly andlaterally from the side of the vehicle, approaching vehicles, whetherfrom the forward direction of the vehicle or from the rearward directionof the vehicle or vehicles that are entering the blind spot of thevehicle, can observe the signal light and have advanced notice if thedriver of the vehicle intends to make a lane change or turn.

Rearview mirror assembly 410 may comprise a fixed position exteriorrearview mirror assembly or may comprise a break-away rearview mirrorassembly, which moves between normal operating position in which therearview mirror assembly is extended from the vehicle to a foldedposition against the body of the vehicle and the exterior rearviewmirror assembly 410 is impacted with sufficient force. Examples ofbreak-away rearview mirror assemblies are well known and reference ismade to the first embodiment of the exterior rearview mirror assemblyfor at least one example such a break-away assembly.

Housing 412 is generally cup-shaped and includes a rearwardly facingopening 412 a in which reflective element 414 is supported. Reference ismade to exterior rearview mirror assembly 210 for examples of preferredmaterial for housing 412. As described above, reflective element 414 issupported in housing 412. Preferably, reflective element 414 is mountedon a backing plate 414 a, which in turn is supported by a positioningdevice, for example an electrical actuator or the like. Again, referenceis made to the exterior rearview mirror assembly 210 for an example ofhow reflective element 414 is supported in housing 412. Furthermore,reference is made to exterior rearview mirror assembly 210 for examplesof preferred reflective elements and for examples of other componentswhich may be mounted or housed in exterior rearview mirror assembly 410.

As best seen in FIGS. 30 and 31, signal light 416 is preferablypositioned in a lower portion or bottom rim of casing 412 and includes alight conduiting member or light pipe 430 and a plurality of lightsources 432. As described in reference to the previous embodiments, thelight emitted from the signal light 416 is preferably yellow, amber,yellow-amber, or amber-red depending on its application. Again,reference is made to the earlier embodiments for examples of how thecolor is generated. Light pipe 430 is preferably formed, such as bymolding, from a plastic material, such as polycarbonate or acrylic orthe like, and is, therefore, substantially rigid. As best seen in FIG.31, light pipe 430 includes a plurality of light transmitting orconduiting portions 430 a, which are spaced and arranged in a generallyradial fashion. Each light transmitting or conduiting portion 430 aincludes a leading edge 434, which defines a light input surface.Furthermore, each light transmitting or conduiting portion 430 aincludes a distal surface or outboard edge 436 which defines a lightemitting surface which is preferably arranged or formed, to follow thecontour of exterior mirror housing 412. In addition, each lighttransmitting or conduiting portion 430 a includes side walls 438 and440, which extend from light input surface 434 outwardly toward lightemitting surface 436 which define radially extending grooves or channelsin light conduiting member 430. As best seen in FIG. 31, side walls 438and 440 preferably terminate before reaching light emitting surface 436.Alternately, one or more light conduiting portions may includerespective side walls 438 and 440 that extend from their respectivelight input surfaces 434 to their respective light emitting surfaces436. In this manner, light pipe 430 comprises a plurality of discretelight transmitting or conduiting portions rather than a unitary lightconduiting or transmitting member.

Light sources 432 are positioned and, preferably, optically coupled tolight input surfaces 434 of each respective light transmitting orconduiting portion 430 a. Referring to FIGS. 31A and 31B, in theillustrated embodiment, light sources 432 comprise surface lightemitting diodes (LEDs) and preferably comprise a flat rectangular wafer432 a with a projecting emitter 432 b, which are commercially availablefrom the Piranha line of Hewlett Packard. In preferred form, each lightinput surface 434 includes a recess and, more preferably, a cylindricalgroove 434 a for receiving the respective light emitting portion 432 bof the light source 432. In this manner, the light emitters 432 b of therespective LEDs may achieve good optical coupling with light inputsurfaces 434. Alternatively, each of the respective light input surfaces434 of light transmitting conduiting portions 430 a may include asemi-spherical recess for receiving the respective light emitters of thelight sources 432, which will maximize the optical coupling betweenlight sources 432 and light conduiting portions. However, semi-sphericalrecesses are harder to tool and to assembly.

Light input surfaces 434 of each light transmitting or conduitingportion 430 a are generally parallel or only slightly angled withrespect to its respective light emitting surface 436 such that the lightemitted from the respective light source 432 will project outwardly fromlight emitting surface with minimal reflection inwardly from the lightemitting surface. Furthermore, sides 438 and 440 are angled with respectto light input surface 434 such that light from light source 432 isinternally reflected and redirected outwardly from light emittingsurface 436. In so doing, light pipe 430 optimizes the internalreflection of each light transmitting or conduiting portion 430 a toefficiently direct the light emitted from light source 432, which tendsto project light in a cone shape light pattern, outwardly through lightemitting surface 436.

Signal light 416 preferably comprises a module which is preferablyremovably inserted into a slotted opening or recess 412 b formed inhousing 412 of exterior rearview mirror assembly 410. Preferably, signallight 416 includes a lower housing portion 442 and an upper housingportion or cover 444. Upper housing portion 444 may be secured to lowerhousing portion 442 by conventional fasteners, for example fasteners,including screws, snap-fit couplers, or the like, such that lightsources 432 are serviceable, or may be welded or adhered to housing 442,for example by sonic welding, heat staking, or an adhesive, so thatsignal light 416 can be replaced as a unit. Light conduiting member 430is positioned in lower housing portion 442 and is preferably integrallymolded with housing portion 442 such that light emitting surface orsurfaces 436 of light pipe 430 form a portion of the outer perimeterwall 446. However, it should be understood that light conduiting member430 may be separately formed from housing portion 442 and, instead,inserted into housing and positioned such that light emitting surface orsurfaces 436 is optically coupled to perimeter wall 446.

In preferred form, lower housing portion 442 is formed or molded from aclear plastic, including for example polycarbonate, acrylic, or thelike. In contrast, upper housing portion 444 may comprise any suitableplastic, for example a melt-processible plastic or moldable material,such as described in reference to casing 212. Furthermore, upper housingportion 444 may be opaque.

Each of the respective light sources 432 includes electrical wiring 447,which extends through housing 442 and through an opening 448 provided inperimeter wall 446 of housing 442. Optionally, perimeter wall 448 mayinclude an electrical outlet or plug to which the electrical wiring iscoupled for coupling to the electrical system of the vehicle. Inaddition, light sources 432 may be coupled to and powered by a circuitboard mounted in housing 442, which is electrically coupled to theelectrical system of the vehicle. Furthermore, light sources 432 may bepowered by flexible circuitry, which is electrically coupled to theelectrical system of the vehicle, or any other suitable conventionalpower supply system. Alternately, each individual wire may project fromhousing 442 for individually coupling to the electrical system of thevehicle.

As best seen in FIG. 31, upper housing portion 444 includes one or moreretaining clips 450 for securing to a corresponding structure providedin housing 412. In the illustrated embodiment, retaining members 450comprises conventional bayonet or snap type couplers, but it should beunderstood that other couplers, such as threaded fasteners, or the like,may be used. As described in preferred form, light conduiting ortransmitting portions 430 a rely on internal reflections of the lightemitted from light sources 432 to transmit or conduit the light fromlight source to light emitting surfaces 436. In this manner, lightconduiting member 430 is easy to manufacture and assembly and relies onthe geometry of the light input surfaces and side walls in order toproduce an effective signal light 416 rather than reflections fromreflective surfaces. However, it should be understood, that side walls438 and 440 may include reflective surfaces, such as vacuum metalizedsurfaces or the like. However, this would entail additionalmanufacturing steps and require more careful handling of the articleand, consequently, would increase the cost of the signal light 416.

Referring to FIG. 32A, signal light 416′ may include bulb shaped lightsources 432′. In a similar manner to signal light 416, light inputsurfaces 434′ of light conduiting members 430′ may include recessedportions 434 a′ for receiving the respective bulb shaped light emitters432′.

As best seen in FIG. 32B, a third embodiment 416″ of signal lightincludes a single light source 432″ such as a conventional light bulb toemit light for input into the respective light input surfaces 434″ ofeach respective light conduiting portion 430 a″ of light pipe 430″.

It should be understood from the foregoing, that light pipes 430, 430′,and 430″ are formed with respective side walls 438 and 440, 438′ and440′, and 438″ and 440″ to guide the light from the respective lightsource or light sources 432, 432′, 432″, to the outboard edge 431, 431′,431″ of light pipe 430 to form a signal light which directs lightrearwardly, laterally, and forwardly of the vehicle. Whether light pipes430, 430′, 430″ are formed as a single unit with a plurality of lighttransmitting or conduiting portions 430 a, 430 a′, 430 a″, or as acollection of discrete light transmitting or conduiting portions, inwhich case discrete regions of light will be produced, signal lights416, 416′, and 416″ provide simple and inexpensive light assemblieswhich are easy to manufacture and install.

It should be understood that should it be desired to vary the intensityof the signal lights so they are brightest during high ambient lightingconditions, such as on a sunny day, but so that they are dimmer whenambient conditions are lower, such as at night, the intensity of thesignal lights can be modulated using a photosensor such as aphotoresistor, photodiode, phototransistor, or their like. A photosensorthat controls the intensity of the signal light so that it reduces itsintensity during low ambient light driving conditions, such as by pulsewidth modulation on the electrical line powering the LEDs in the signallight, may be mounted integrally with the signal light module itself, orit may be part of the vehicle electronics itself, such as a photosensormounted as a part of an automatic electrochromic mirror circuit, as partof a vehicle automatic headlamp activation circuit, as part of aheadlamp daylight running light control circuit, or their like.

Referring to FIGS. 33-37, the numeral 510 designates a fourth embodimentof the exterior rearview assembly of the present invention. Exteriorrearview assembly 510 comprises a powerfold exterior rearview mirrorassembly and includes a housing or casing 512 in which a reflectiveelement 514 is supported. Reflective element 514 is optionally supportedin casing 512 in a similar manner to that described in reference to theearlier embodiment and, therefore, reference is made therein for furthermounting details and, additionally, for examples of reflective elementswhich can be employed. In preferred form, exterior rearview assembly 510includes a “powerfold” mechanism that is typically operated andactuatable/deactuatable from within the vehicle cabin either by a useroperator switch or by a speed sensor that folds the mirror out when apredetermined vehicle velocity is sensed and that upon activation by thedriver causes a folding portion 510 a of exterior mirror assembly 510,for example casing 512, to fold or move or pivot about a fold-away axis511 on a non-folding portion 510 b of exterior mirror assembly 510, forexample a mounting bracket or the like, from its normally extendedviewing position wherein mirror assembly 510 provides a field of view toa compact folded position wherein the rearwardly facing side of thefolding portion is disposed generally parallel to the vehicle body(FIGS. 34 and 35). “Powerfold” exterior rearview minors are conventionaland, therefore, the specific details of the “powerfold” mechanisms areomitted herein. In many European countries, “powerfold” exteriorrearview mirror assemblies are used during parking to reduce the widthof the vehicle.

In addition, exterior rearview mirror assembly 510 includes a securitylight and, preferably, a self-contained, unitary security light module516 which in the illustrated embodiment is mounted to folding portion510 a of mirror assembly 510 on a bottom wall portion 526 of casing wall512 a (FIG. 36). Security light 516 is preferably of similarconstruction to unitary light module 200 described in pendingapplication entitled EXTERIOR VEHICLE SECURITY LIGHT Ser. No.08/687,628, filed on Jul. 26, 1996, by Todd W. Pastrick et al., now U.S.Pat. No. 5,823,654, which is assigned to Donnelly Corporation ofHolland, Mich. and which is incorporated herein in its entirety.Security light 516 includes a housing 518, in which a light source 520and reflector 522 are supported, and a cover or lens 524. Housing 518 ispreferably a plastic material, such as polycarbonate, polyester, nylon,acetal, polypropylene or ABS. Cover 524 is optionally welded to housing518, for example by sonic welding, heat staking or the like, oradhesively attached by an adhesive. Reflector 520 may comprise, forexample a polished metal substrate, a vacuum metalized substrate, or ametal filled substrate. As best seen in FIG. 33-37, reflector 520 andlens 524 are adapted to direct light in a light pattern 517. For furtherdetails of the components of security light 516, reference is made tothe above incorporated pending patent application. As described in thereferenced application, security light 516 is adapted to direct lightgenerally rearwardly of the vehicle and to fan out laterally from thevehicle to provide a lighted security zone near or adjacent the vehicle.Furthermore, security light 516 is preferably mounted in orsubstantially incorporated to casing 512 with minimal protrusion fromcasing 512 into the slipstream such that security light 516 does not addto the aerodynamic drag of minor assembly 510 and, most preferably, withlens 524 substantially flush with the outer surface of casing 512.Moreover, in preferred form, at least security light 516 or light source520 is serviceable.

As best seen in FIGS. 34 and 35, security light 516 may be optionallyrotationally mounted in casing 512 such that when folding portion 510 aof exterior rearview mirror assembly 510 is moved to its compact foldedposition, security light 516 remains in the same orientation withrespect to the vehicle such that the light pattern 517 which isprojected from security light 516 remains substantially unchangeddespite the repositioning of exterior rearview mirror assembly 510. Inother words, security light 516 remains stationary with respect tovehicle V but rotates in casing 512 when exterior mirror assembly 510moves to its folded position.

Referring to FIG. 36, security light 516 is mounted in an opening 512 bin casing wall 512 a. Security light 516 is mounted in opening 512 b bya rotatable sleeve or bushing 530 so that security light 516 isrotatable about its axis 516 a. In this manner, security light 512 ismovably or rotatably mounted in casing 512. Preferably, exterior mirrorassembly 510 includes an actuator or driver 528 such as a gear or othersuitable mechanism, including a servo-motor driver, a belt, a cylinder,including a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, or the like, whichrepositions or rotates security light 516 about axis 516 a to maintainlight pattern 517 in a generally fixed position with respect to thevehicle. As best seen in FIG. 36, gear 528 may engage threads 518 aformed on a lower portion of or a threaded collar mounted to housing518.

Furthermore, exterior rearview mirror assembly 510 may also include abreak-away mounting which permits the exterior mirror assembly to foldto a break-away position upon impact. Both of the powerfold andbreak-away features are commonly known in the mirror art.

Alternately, security light 516 may be mounted in folding portion 510 ain a fixed position; in which case, when folding portion 510 a moves toits folded position, security light 516 remains stationary with respectto folding portion 510 a but moves with respect to the vehicle. In thisembodiment, therefore, security light 516 is preferably oriented suchthat it projects light to provide a security zone when folding portion510 a is in its folded position, and preferably one that washes the sideof the vehicle and that provides adequate ground illumination (anaverage of at least one lux ground illumination intensity desired, atleast five lux preferred) at the front and rear entrances/exits of thevehicle where occupants may enter/exit the cabin. Typically, when adriver of a vehicle with a powerfold exterior mirror approaches thevehicle, the powerfold exterior mirror assembly is in its foldedposition and does not move to its extended position until the driver isalready in the car with the ignition on. However, where the driver ofthe vehicle uses a remote control for actuating the powerfold exteriormirror assembly as the driver approaches the vehicle, the firstembodiment of the powerfold exterior mirror assembly may be preferred sothat if the folding portion of the mirror assembly is in its extendedbefore the driver enters the vehicle, then the security light willprovide a lighted security zone adjacent the vehicle which washes theside of vehicle and provides ground illumination at the cabin entrancesregardless of the position of the folded portion of the mirror assembly.

Optionally, the exterior rearview mirror assembly may include aproximity sensor 540 mounted on casing 512 which is electrically coupledto the powerfold control system (not shown). Proximity sensor 540actuates the powerfold function upon detection of an object, such asanother vehicle or wall, or the like. Furthermore, proximity detector540 may be coupled with the light module control circuitry (not shown)so that when the powerfold function is actuated by the detection of anobject, security light 516 will be similarly actuated to rotate withrespect to casing 512 to maintain light pattern 517 for the securityzone in substantially the same orientation.

Referring to FIG. 38, a fifth embodiment 610 of the exterior rearviewmirror assembly is illustrated. Exterior rearview mirror assembly 610 isof similar construction to exterior rearview mirror assembly 510 andalso comprises a powerfold mirror assembly, Assembly 610 includes afolding portion 610 a, which houses a reflective element 614, andnon-folding portion 610 b, which is adapted to fixedly mount to thevehicle body. Powerfold mirror assembly 610 is typically operated andactuatable/deactuatable from within the vehicle cabin either by a useroperator switch or by a speed sensor as described in reference to theprevious embodiment. In preferred form, upon activation by the driver(or by the speed sensor), folding portion 610 a pivots or folds about afold-away axis 611 on non-folding portion 610 b from its normalextended, viewing position to a folded position wherein the rearwardlyfacing side of exterior mirror assembly 610 is disposed generallyparallel to the side of the vehicle.

In this embodiment, a security light 616 is mounted in non-foldingportion 610 b of assembly 610. Security light 616 is of similarconstruction to security light 516 and, therefore, reference is made tothe previous embodiment for further details thereof. In this manner,when folding portion 610 a is moved between its extended position andits folded position, security light 616 will provide a lighted securityzone adjacent the vehicle which washes the side of vehicle and providesground illumination at the cabin entrances regardless of the position ofthe folded portion of the mirror assembly. Therefore, pattern of light617 projected by light module 616 remains generally stationary withrespect to the vehicle and is unaffected by the repositioning of foldingportion 610 a of assembly 610.

Furthermore, as described in reference to the previous embodiments,reflective element 614 may comprise an adjustable reflective element;for example, assembly 610 may include a manual actuator or an electricalactuator or the like, as should be understood by those skilled in theart. Moreover, movement of reflective element 614 is independent of thesecurity light 616 as security light 616 is mounted or supportedindependently of reflective element 614 to assembly 610.

As best seen in FIG. 38, security light 616 is preferably substantiallyincorporated at non-folding portion 610 b and aerodynamically locatedinto fixed portion 610 b. Preferably, security light 616 is incorporatedinto exterior mirror assembly 610 with minimum protrusion into theslipstream of the mirror assembly. In this manner, security light 616does not significantly impact and, preferably, does not add to theaerodynamic drag of exterior mirror assembly 610. Most preferably,security light 616 is located into fixed portion 610 b with its securitylight lens 624 substantially flush with the outer surface 620 of foldingportion 610 b. Furthermore, in preferred form at least security light616, or its light source 620, is serviceable.

With regard to embodiments of this present invention that utilize asecurity light module incorporated in a powerfold exterior mirrorassembly where the security light is located in the folding portion ofthe powerfold assembly, the optical design of the light module can besuch that a pattern of ground illumination is provided, such as isillustrated in FIGS. 11 and 12, and where the side of the vehicle andthe entrances/exits of the cabin are well illuminated, when the foldingportion of the powerfold assembly is retracted and folded to the side ofthe vehicle body. Alternately, the preferred patterns of FIGS. 11 and 12can be realized when the folding portion is extended to its outward,non-retracted position. In this regard, it is optionally desirable thatthe folding portion, if retracted and folded to the vehicle body whenthe driver approaches the vehicle from a distance, can be remotelyunfolded such as by providing a button on a hand held transmitter (suchas a keyfob, commonly provided to vehicle owners today for remotelock/unlock of vehicle doors) which, when actuated, transmits a signal,preferably a radio frequency (RP) signal or an infrared (IR) signal, toa receiver in the vehicle of which, upon receipt of the remote command,causes the powerfold assembly to unfold and move its folding portion tothe fully extended, normal driving, unfolded position. Simultaneously,the security light can be activated so that when the powerfold unitunfolds, the signal light therein illuminates, and with both featuresbeing actuated by remote actuation from a distance. Such feature orfeatures can be blocked out, as described previously, to avoidinadvertent operation when the vehicle is in motion.

The concepts of this invention are applicable to a variety of exteriorvehicular mirror assembly constructions, including one-part designs,uni-body constructions, and their like, as known in the exterior mirrorassembly art. The concepts of the invention are applicable to a varietyof assemblies including assemblies that use a bracket as a distinctinternal structure and assemblies that do not use a bracket but ratherare bracket-less assemblies where the housing itself serves as astructural element with means such as on the walls of the housing forsecuring an actuator and for receiving a lamp module.

Also, although desirably and preferably finding utility as a securitylight, the exterior mirror assembly light modules of this invention arealso useful for other purposes such as providing for a courtesy exteriorlight and a general ground illumination light when such lighting may bedesired such as when a door is opening, a key is inserted, or a keyboardentry is touched, or when approach of a person to a vehicle is detectedsuch as by voice activation, proximity detection and their like. Also,light modules using the principles and concepts described herein couldbe provided for mounting on the vehicle other than within an exteriormirror assembly, such as under a door within a door well or under a doorbody panel so as to provide ground illumination directly under a doorwhenever said door is opened.

While several forms of the invention have been shown and described,other forms will now become apparent to those skilled in the art. Forexample, the signal light assembly (216, 316, or 416) may project awhite light or other colored light including a red light or a blue light(such as could be generated by a blue LED or blue phosphor). Likewise,the security light module (516 or 616) may project a colored light, suchas an amber light or a red light as desired. Furthermore, as describedin reference to the first embodiment, rearview mirror assemblies 310,410, 510 or 610 may comprise fixed position mirror assemblies orbreak-away mirror assemblies. Changes and modification in thespecifically described embodiments can be carried out without departingfrom the principles of the invention, which is intended to be limitedonly by the scope of the appended claims, as interpreted according tothe principles of patent law including the doctrine of equivalents.Therefore, it will be understood that the embodiment shown in thedrawings described above are merely for illustrated purposes only andare not intended to limit the scope of the invention which is defined bythe claims that follow.

1. A lighted exterior mirror system for a vehicle, said lighted exteriormirror system comprising: an exterior mirror assembly; a signal lightdisposed in said exterior mirror assembly, wherein said signal lightcomprises at least one light emitting diode; wherein said signal lightis configured to emit a light pattern and wherein said light pattern isdefined at least between a forward leading edge and a rearward leadingedge; and wherein said forward leading edge of said light pattern formsa forward angle that is in the range of about zero degrees to about 45degrees relative to the side of a vehicle equipped with said lightedexterior mirror system, and wherein said rearward leading edge of saidlight pattern forms a rearward angle that is in the range of about zerodegrees to about 15 degrees relative to the side of the equippedvehicle.
 2. The lighted exterior mirror system of claim 1, wherein saidforward leading edge of said light pattern forms a forward angle that isin the range of about zero degrees to about 40 degrees relative to theside of the equipped vehicle and wherein said rearward leading edge ofsaid light pattern forms a rearward angle that is in the range of aboutzero degrees to about 5 degrees relative to the side of the equippedvehicle.
 3. The lighted exterior mirror system of claim 1, wherein saidsignal light is operable to produce a light intensity of between about0.3 candela and about 200 candela.
 4. The lighted exterior mirror systemof claim 1, wherein said exterior mirror assembly comprises a foldingportion and a non-folding portion and wherein said exterior mirrorassembly comprises at least one of a powerfold exterior mirror assemblyand a breakaway exterior mirror assembly.
 5. The lighted exterior minorsystem of claim 1, wherein said signal light comprises a light guidingelement that guides light emitted by said at least one light emittingdiode to at least partially provide said light pattern.
 6. The lightedexterior mirror system of claim 5, wherein said light guiding elementcomprises a light piping element.
 7. The lighted exterior minor systemof claim 6, wherein said light piping element comprises a plurality offaceted light reflecting surfaces therein.
 8. The lighted exteriormirror system of claim 1, wherein said at least one light emitting diodeis associated with circuitry of said signal light, and wherein saidcircuitry of said signal light comprises flexible circuitry.
 9. Thelighted exterior minor system of claim 1, wherein said signal lightcomprises a unitary module.
 10. The lighted exterior mirror system ofclaim 9, wherein at least one of (a) said unitary module is configuredto connect to an electrical system of the equipped vehicle, and (b) saidunitary module is detachably attached at said exterior minor assembly.11. The lighted exterior minor system of claim 1, wherein said signallight includes a housing and a light-transmitting cover, and whereinsaid at least one light emitting diode is disposed in said housing, andwherein, when actuated, light emitted by said at least one lightemitting diode passes through said light-transmitting cover.
 12. Thelighted exterior mirror system of claim 11, wherein saidlight-transmitting cover is substantially flush with an outer surface ofsaid exterior mirror assembly.
 13. The lighted exterior mirror system ofclaim 11, wherein said light-transmitting cover blends with a color ofan outer surface of said exterior mirror assembly.
 14. The lightedexterior mirror system of claim 1, comprising a ground illuminationlight that is operable to illuminate with white light a ground areaadjacent the equipped side of the equipped vehicle at least at a frontdoor region at the equipped side of the equipped vehicle where occupantsmay enter and exit the equipped vehicle.
 15. A lighted exterior mirrorsystem for a vehicle, said lighted exterior mirror system comprising: anexterior mirror assembly; a signal light disposed in said exteriormirror assembly, wherein said signal light comprises at least one lightemitting diode; wherein said signal light comprises a unitary modulehaving a housing and a light-transmitting cover, and wherein said atleast one light emitting diode is disposed in said housing, and wherein,when actuated, light emitted by said at least one light emitting diodepasses through said light-transmitting cover; wherein saidlight-transmitting cover is substantially flush with an outer surface ofsaid exterior mirror assembly; wherein said signal light is configuredto emit a light pattern and wherein said light pattern is defined atleast between a forward leading edge and a rearward leading edge; andwherein said forward leading edge of said light pattern forms a forwardangle that is in the range of about zero degrees to about 45 degreesrelative to the side of a vehicle equipped with said lighted exteriormirror system, and wherein said rearward leading edge of said lightpattern forms a rearward angle that is in the range of about zerodegrees to about 15 degrees relative to the side of the equippedvehicle.
 16. The lighted exterior mirror system of claim 15, whereinsaid forward leading edge of said light pattern forms a forward anglethat is in the range of about zero degrees to about 40 degrees relativeto the side of the equipped vehicle and wherein said rearward leadingedge of said light pattern forms a rearward angle that is in the rangeof about zero degrees to about 5 degrees relative to the side of theequipped vehicle.
 17. The lighted exterior mirror system of claim 15,wherein said exterior mirror assembly comprises a folding portion and anon-folding portion and wherein said exterior mirror assembly comprisesat least one of a powerfold exterior mirror assembly and a breakawayexterior mirror assembly.
 18. The lighted exterior mirror system ofclaim 15, wherein said signal light comprises a light guiding elementthat guides light emitted by said at least one light emitting diode toat least partially provide said light pattern.
 19. The lighted exteriormirror system of claim 15, wherein said light-transmitting cover blendswith a color of an outer surface of said exterior mirror assembly. 20.The lighted exterior mirror system of claim 15, comprising a groundillumination light that is operable to illuminate with white light aground area adjacent the equipped side of the equipped vehicle at leastat a front door region at the equipped side of the equipped vehiclewhere occupants may enter and exit the equipped vehicle.
 21. A lightedexterior mirror system for a vehicle, said lighted exterior mirrorsystem comprising: an exterior mirror assembly; a turn signal lightdisposed in said exterior minor assembly, wherein said turn signal lightcomprises at least one light emitting diode; wherein said turn signallight comprises a unitary module; wherein at least one of (a) saidunitary module is configured to connect to an electrical system of theequipped vehicle, and (b) said unitary module is detachably attached atsaid exterior mirror assembly; wherein said turn signal light isconfigured to emit a light pattern and wherein said light pattern isdefined at least between a forward leading edge and a rearward leadingedge; and wherein said forward leading edge of said light pattern formsa forward angle that is in the range of about zero degrees to about 45degrees relative to the side of a vehicle equipped with said lightedexterior minor system, and wherein said rearward leading edge of saidlight pattern forms a rearward angle that is in the range of about zerodegrees to about 15 degrees relative to the side of the equippedvehicle.
 22. The lighted exterior mirror system of claim 21, whereinsaid unitary module comprises a housing and a light-transmitting cover,and wherein said at least one light emitting diode is disposed in saidhousing, and wherein, when actuated, light emitted by said at least onelight emitting diode passes through said light-transmitting cover. 23.The lighted exterior mirror system of claim 21, wherein said exteriormirror assembly comprises a folding portion and a non-folding portionand wherein said exterior mirror assembly comprises at least one of apowerfold exterior mirror assembly and a breakaway exterior mirrorassembly.
 24. The lighted exterior mirror system of claim 21, comprisinga ground illumination light that is operable to illuminate with whitelight a ground area adjacent the equipped side of the equipped vehicleat least at a front door region at the equipped side of the equippedvehicle where occupants may enter and exit the equipped vehicle.